Nick Smith Injury News & Updates

Smith amassed 13 points (5-10 FG, 3-6 3Pt), two rebounds, one block and two steals in 24 minutes during Friday's 126-105 loss to the Celtics.

Smith has now scored in double digits in back-to-back games, providing the Lakers with a much-needed spark off the bench in the absences of Luka Doncic (personal) and LeBron James (sciatica/back). Smith's playing time has been sporadic this season, and his minutes would likely take a hit if Doncic and/or James were cleared to return Sunday against the 76ers.

Smith produced 12 points (4-7 FG, 2-3 3Pt, 2-3 FT), two rebounds and two steals in 14 minutes during Thursday's 123-120 victory over the Raptors.

Smith caught fire off the bench despite a limited role. He's been mostly out of the rotation mix, but Luka Doncic's personal absence opened up some breathing room in the backcourt. For now, this game can be chalked up as an outlier, and there's no word as to whether Doncic will miss more time.

Smith accumulated 25 points (10-15 FG, 5-6 3Pt), six assists, two steals and one rebound across 27 minutes during Monday's 123-115 victory over the Trail Blazers.

Smith capitalized on extended minutes Monday with Luka Doncic (rest) and Austin Reaves (groin) sidelined, erupting for over 20 points while knocking down a game-high five three-pointers. The guard, who signed a two-way deal with the Lakers before training camp in September, appeared in 60 games (27 starts) for the Hornets last season, averaging 9.9 points, 2.4 assists and 2.1 rebounds in 22.8 minutes per contest. While this level of usage isn't likely to continue, Monday's showing was an encouraging example of the offensive spark Smith is capable of providing when given the opportunity.

Smith (groin) is signing a two-way contract with the Lakers on Monday, Dave McMenamin of ESPN.com reports.

Smith was waived by the Hornets on Thursday but quickly landed with the Lakers ahead of training camp, albeit on a two-way pact. The 21-year-old guard logged meaningful minutes last season, starting 27 of 60 regular-season games and averaging 9.9 points, 2.4 assists and 2.1 rebounds across 22.8 minutes per night.

The Hornets are waiving Smith (groin) on Thursday, Michael Scotto of USA Today reports.

This comes as a bit of a surprise, given that Smith played a relatively significant role for Charlotte a year ago. Over his final 46 outings after the calendar flipped to 2025, he averaged 11.9 points, 2.9 assists and 2.5 rebounds in 27.0 minutes per game. It shouldn't be long before the 2023 first-rounder latches on with another club this fall.

Smith (groin) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Celtics.

Smith won't play in the regular-season finale after suffering a groin injury in Friday's loss to Boston. The second-year guard took advantage of all the injuries in Charlotte this season, finishing the campaign with averages of 9.9 points, 2.4 assists and 2.1 rebounds in 22.8 minutes across 60 appearances (27 starts).

Smith (groin) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Celtics.

Smith suffered a groin injury during the Hornets' loss to the Celtics on Friday, and it puts him in jeopardy of missing Sunday's rematch. Seth Curry and Jaylen Sims would be in line to see increased minutes if Smith is unable to play.

Smith did not return to Friday's 130-94 loss to the Celtics. He finished with nine points (3-7 FG, 2-5 3Pt, 1-1 FT), four rebounds and four assists across 17 minutes.

Smith was announced as doubtful to return for the second half of Friday's game due to a groin injury. His inability to return puts him in jeopardy of missing the regular-season finale against Boston on Sunday.

Smith (groin) is doubtful to return to Friday's game against the Celtics.

Smith played in the first half and logged nine points, four rebounds and four assists in 17 minutes, but he did not come out of the locker room for the start of the second half. Seth Curry started in the second half for Smith.

Smith chipped in 28 points (8-13 FG, 6-9 3Pt, 6-6 FT), six rebounds and 10 assists across 37 minutes during Wednesday's 126-96 loss to Toronto.

Smith re-entered the Hornets' starting lineup due to injuries to Josh Okogie (hamstring) and Josh Green (shoulder). Smith took advantage of the opportunity, scoring a game-high 28 points while tying a season high with six three-pointers. It was the first double-double of his two-year NBA career, and his 10 assists were also a career high. Smith had seen his playing time off the bench diminish recently, but his efforts Wednesday could earn him additional playing time over the Hornets' final two games of the 2024-25 regular season.

Smith is in the starting lineup for Wednesday's game against the Raptors, Blake Murphy of Sportsnet.ca reports.

The Hornets will be without Josh Okogie (hamstring) and Josh Green (shoulder), so Smith moves to the starting five for this contest. His most recent start came on March 23 against the Heat, when he recorded 19 points in a 122-105 loss.

Smith (ankle) is available for Sunday's game against the Bulls.

Smith has been upgraded from questionable to available and will suit up Sunday following a two-game absence. In his past 12 appearances (one start), Smith has averaged 12.1 points, 2.9 assists and 2.3 rebounds in 25.4 minutes per game.

Smith (ankle) has been listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Bulls.

Smith is in danger of missing a third straight game for the Hornets due to a sprained left ankle. If he's unable to play against Chicago, Charlotte will likely turn to Josh Okogie to help shoulder the load in the backcourt.

Smith (ankle) is out for Friday's game against the Kings.

Smith missed Wednesday's game against the Pacers due to a left ankle sprain, and the guard will also miss this one due to the same problem. Smith has started in 25 of his 56 appearances with the Hornets this season, averaging 9.6 points, 2.0 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game. His next chance to suit up will come Sunday against the Bulls.

Smith (ankle) has been listed as questionable for Friday's game against the Kings.

After missing Wednesday's game against the Pacers due to an ankle issue, Smith is in danger of missing a second straight game for Charlotte on Friday against Sacramento. Josh Okogie might have to help pick up the slack if Smith is ultimately ruled out.

Smith (ankle) has been ruled out for Wednesday's game against the Pacers.

Smith is dealing with a left ankle issue, which will keep him sidelined in Indiana. The Hornets will likely turn to Damion Baugh and Josh Okogie to help shoulder the load in the backcourt.

Smith (ankle) has been downgraded from probable to questionable for Wednesday's game against the Pacers.

This is tough news for Charlotte, as Miles Bridges (illness) is also iffy to suit up. Smith has played an average of 28.1 minutes over his last seven games, so his potential absence could open up a big opportunity for others. Players such as Damion Baugh and Josh Okogie could potentially step into larger roles for Charlotte if Smith sits out.

Smith (ankle) is probable for Wednesday's game against the Pacers.

The left ankle injury is a new concern for Smith, who hasn't missed an outing since Feb. 9. However, the 20-year-old is still likely to suit up against Indiana. Smith has averaged 12.2 points, 3.2 assists, 2.6 three-pointers and 2.0 rebounds across 28.6 minutes per game in his last five outings (one start).

Smith finished with 19 points (7-16 FG, 3-5 3Pt, 2-2 FT), four rebounds and two assists across 35 minutes off the bench during Sunday's 98-94 loss to the Pelicans.

The second-year guard continues to provide a long-distance spark for the Hornets. Smith has scored double-digit points in seven of the last nine games (one start), averaging 14.6 points, 3.0 assists, 2.8 threes and 2.6 boards in 27.8 minutes a contest while shooting 46.3 percent from beyond the arc.

Smith is not in the starting lineup for Tuesday's game against Magic.

Smith made a spot start Sunday and posted 19 points, three rebounds and three assists against the Heat, but he'll return to his regular bench role for this matchup as LaMelo Ball and DaQuan Jeffries will start on the backcourt. Smith has been playing well in recent weeks, regardless of whether he starts or comes off the bench. He's averaging 2.3 points, 2.5 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game across 13 appearances in March (five starts).

Smith chipped in 19 points (7-14 FG, 5-9 3Pt), three rebounds, three assists and one steal across 38 minutes during Sunday's 122-105 loss to the Heat.

Smith led the Hornets in scoring in this loss, which is impressive since the likes of LaMelo Ball, Miles Bridges and Mark Williams were also in the starting lineup. Smith has scored in double digits in five of his last six outings despite starting just once in that stretch, and he's averaging 12.3 points, 2.5 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 0.2 steals per game since the beginning of March.

Smith will start Sunday's game against the Heat.

Smith will slide into the starting lineup due to the absence of Josh Green (shoulder). As a starter this season, Smith has averaged 12.6 points, 2.8 assists and 2.5 rebounds in 30.9 minutes per game.

Smith amassed 14 points (5-14 FG, 4-9 3Pt) and three assists over 26 minutes during Friday's 141-106 loss to the Thunder.

The Hornets looked overmatched in this contest, but Smith was one of the few standout performers, especially since he came off the bench to record double-digit points. Smith has scored in double digits off the bench in four of his last five outings, averaging 14.6 points, 2.6 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game over that stretch.

Smith closed with 13 points (4-10 FG, 2-4 3Pt, 3-3 FT), four rebounds and three assists across 27 minutes during Thursday's 115-98 win over the Knicks.

Although Smith has seen a healthy workload in recent games, his fantasy appeal has been limited to deeper formats. Over his last eight games, Smith has averaged 12.3 points, 2.6 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.8 three-pointers in 24.2 minutes with no blocks or steals during that stretch.

Smith contributed 26 points (9-12 FG, 6-7 3Pt, 2-2 FT), three rebounds and five assists over 27 minutes during Friday's 145-134 win over the Spurs.

Smith's efficient 26 points established a new season high Friday, and he sunk six three-pointers off the bench. The 2023 first-rounder has taken on more usage in the absence of Brandon Miller (wrist), but Smith's shooting efficiency remains poor overall. Across his last 14 outings, Smith has averaged 12.1 points, 2.6 assists, 2.1 rebounds and 2.0 three-pointers in 29.7 minutes while shooting 37.7 percent from the field.

Smith isn't in the starting lineup for Monday's game against the Heat.

DaQuan Jeffries will supplant Smith in the starting five for the second time over the club's last three outings. The 20-year-old has appeared in 11 outings (10 starts) since the All-Star break, during which he has averaged 12.1 points, 2.6 assists and 2.1 rebounds across 32.3 minutes per contest.

Smith won't start in Friday's game against Cleveland.

The combo guard will slide to the bench in favor of Josh Green on Friday. Smith had started in each of his last 23 appearances, during which he averaged 12.3 points, 2.9 assists and 2.5 rebounds across 30.9 minutes per contest.

Smith (quadricep) is available for Friday's game against Cleveland.

Smith will shake off his probable tag due to a right quad contusion and suit up Friday. The combo guard has appeared in 11 consecutive outings (all starts) for the Hornets, during which he has averaged 10.9 points, 3.0 assists and 1.9 rebounds across 31.8 minutes per contest.

Smith (quad) has been listed as probable for Friday's game against the Cavaliers.

Smith has started the last 11 games for the Hornets and is trending toward getting another start Friday against Cleveland. The 20-year-old guard is averaging 12.3 points, 2.5 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game, shooting 38.7 percent from the floor and 29 percent from beyond the arc in 23 games as a starter for Charlotte.

Smith totaled 12 points (5-14 FG, 2-5 3Pt), three rebounds and seven assists in 33 minutes during Thursday's 103-96 loss to the Mavericks.

Smith led the team with seven assists, his highest total in this area this season. The 2023 first-rounder shouldn't struggle for playmaking opportunities as a full-time starter with the injury-plagued Hornets down the stretch, but his lack of efficiency has left a lot to be desired. Smith is shooting just 33.7 percent from the floor and 24.5 percent from three-point land across his last eight contests, averaging 11.4 points, 3.1 assists, 1.6 rebounds, 0.5 steals and 1.6 three-pointers in 30.6 minutes during this period.

Smith supplied 16 points (7-16 FG, 2-6 3Pt), one rebound and three assists over 33 minutes during Thursday's 129-115 loss to Denver.

The second-year guard continues to be productive as part of the Hornets' starting five. Aside from a Feb. 12 contest against the Magic in which he played just 16 minutes before being ejected, Smith has scored in double digits in seven straight appearances, averaging 18.0 points, 3.1 threes, 2.9 assists and 2.4 boards in those seven starts.

Smith was ejected from Wednesday's game against the Magic, Dan Savage of the Magic's official site reports.

Smith appeared to be jawing at Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who was also tossed Wednesday, which led to his ejection. Smith will get an early start to his All-Star break, as his next chance to play comes Feb. 19 against the Lakers. The 2023 first-rounder's night ends with two points (1-5 FG, 0-2 3Pt), three assists and one rebound in 16 minutes.

Smith (back) is available for Monday's game against the Nets.

Smith couldn't suit up in Sunday's game against the Pistons, but he'll be able to return from a back injury Monday. Across his last four outings, the 2023 first-rounder has been heating up with averages of 21.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 3.8 threes in 34.6 minutes while shooting 53.6 percent from deep.

Smith (back) is questionable for Monday's game against the Nets.

Smith missed Sunday's loss in Detroit due to a back issue but has a chance to return for the second half of Charlotte's back-to-back set. If he can't suit up, Seth Curry and KJ Simpson would be candidates for increased roles again.

Smith (back) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Pistons.

Smith will join LaMelo Ball (ankle) on the sideline for the first half of Charlotte's back-to-back set. KJ Simpson, Seth Curry, Elfrid Payton and Isaiah Wong are all candidates for increased roles Sunday. Smith can be considered questionable for Monday's game in Brooklyn.

Smith (back) has been listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Pistons.

Smith has started the Hornets' last 12 games but is in danger of missing Sunday's game in Detroit. If Dalton Knecht is cleared to play against the Pistons, he could start in Smith's place if he's ruled out due to the back issue.

Smith racked up 19 points (8-13 FG, 2-5 3Pt, 1-1 FT), six rebounds and five assists over 34 minutes during Friday's 117-116 victory over San Antonio.

Smith scored at least 19 points for the fourth straight game despite the return of LaMelo Ball from an ankle injury. Smith has been somewhat of a revelation for the Hornets, having now started 12 straight games. During that time he has averaged 13.7 points, 2.8 assists and 2.3 three-pointers in 30.0 minutes per game. The arrival of Dalton Knecht could complicate things, although given the Hornets have both eyes on the future, Smith remaining in the starting lineup would make sense.

Smith finished Wednesday's 112-102 loss to the Bucks with 22 points (9-15 FG, 4-8 3Pt, 0-1 FT), two assists and two rebounds over 32 minutes.

Two days after scoring a season-high 24 points in Monday's loss to the Wizards, Smith answered with a 22-point outing in Wednesday's defeat and was the game's third-leading scorer behind Damian Lillard (29) and Bobby Portis (23). Smith has been in the Hornets' starting lineup since Jan. 17, and he's taken on a larger role on offense due to the absence of LaMelo Ball (ankle). Over his last three outings, Smith has averaged 22.0 points on 58.1 percent shooting (including 56.5 percent from three on 7.7 3PA/G), 2.3 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 0.7 steals over 34.8 minutes per contest. Smith and the Hornets will look to break out of their six-game slump against Victor Wembanyama and the new-look Spurs on Friday.

Smith finished Monday's 124-114 loss to Washington with 24 points (9-16 FG, 4-7 3Pt, 2-2 FT), four rebounds, two assists and one steal over 39 minutes.

Smith connected on four threes for the fourth time this season Monday and co-led the Hornets in scoring with Miles Bridges. Smith went back and forth between the Hornets and the G League affiliate Greensboro Swarm over the first two months of the season, but he strung together some solid performances at the beginning of the new year which earned him a spot in the Hornets' starting lineup Jan. 17. Since then, Smith has averaged 12.2 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.6 assists over 29.3 minutes per game.

Smith had two points (1-10 FG, 0-7 3Pt), five rebounds and two assists across 27 minutes during Wednesday's 104-83 loss to the Nets.

Smith failed to score double-digit points for the third straight outing Wednesday. Since being inserted into the starting lineup on Jan. 17, Smith has struggled mightily with his outside shot, converting just 26.1 percent of his 6.6 three-point attempts per contest. On the season, the 20-year-old guard is shooting 36.4 percent from the field.

Smith closed Friday's 102-97 loss to the Trail Blazers with 17 points (6-18 FG, 2-10 3Pt, 3-3 FT), five rebounds, six assists and two blocks in 34 minutes.

With the majority of Charlotte's starters in street clothes, the Hornets' offense ran through Smith on Friday. The 20-year-old second-year guard led the team with 17 points and six assists, but he struggled for efficiency shooting the ball with a lack of offensive firepower surrounding him. Smith has been forced into a featured role over his past four games, where he's averaged 15.0 points, 3.5 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 0.8 steals and 2.8 threes in 30.3 minutes, and he should continue to handle extra usage with Brandon Miller (wrist) done for the season.

Smith chipped in 19 points (7-13 FG, 5-8 3Pt), three rebounds, one assist and one steal across 30 minutes during Monday's 110-105 win over Dallas.

Brandon Miller is out indefinitely with a wrist injury, and Smith looks poised to make a big impact for Charlotte in the short term. In his previous start against the Bulls on Friday, Smith produced 15 points (6-12 FG, 3-7 3Pt), five rebounds, one assist and one steal in 26 minutes. He'll be a popular waiver-wire pickup for good reason.

Smith supplied 15 points (6-12 FG, 3-7 3Pt), five rebounds, one assist and one steal in 26 minutes during Friday's 125-123 win over the Bulls.

Smith's playing time is projected to increase following Brandon Miller's (wrist) injury diagnosis. With Miller out indefinitely, the 2023 first-round pick drew the start and flashed the sharpshooting skills that made him a hot commodity coming out of Arkansas. Although the Hornets are floundering in the Eastern Conference, players like LaMelo Ball, Miles Bridges and Mark Williams are playing well, which will give Smith some fantasy worthiness if he can hold on to the job.

Smith will start Friday's game against the Bulls.

It'll be the first career start for the former first-rounder Friday, and he'll have a chance to offer a boost in fantasy value. Over his past four games, Jones is averaging 8.5 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 2.0 threes in 18.6 minutes.

Smith totaled 18 points (7-12 FG, 4-6 3Pt), five rebounds, two assists and one block across 19 minutes during Sunday's 115-105 loss to Cleveland.

Smith shined off the Hornets bench in Sunday's contest, leading all second unit players in scoring, threes made and blocks in a season-best showcase. Smith set a new season-high point total, reaching double figures in scoring for the first time this year. He has connected on two or more threes in three appearances off the bench.

Smith was recalled from the Hornets' G League affiliate Thursday.

Smith will rejoin the Hornets ahead of Friday's game against Detroit. The 20-year-old appeared in only five games during December, and he averaged 4.2 points, 1.4 rebounds and 1.0 assists across 11.2 minutes per contest.

The Hornets recalled Smith from the G League's Greensboro Swarm on Thursday.

Smith tallied four points (1-1 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 1-2 FT) in four minutes during Charlotte's most recent outing against Houston on Monday. However, the second-year guard should receive increased playing time while in the G League.

Charlotte recalled Smith from the G League's Greensboro Swarm on Sunday.

After erupting for 33 points (11-20 FG, 3-7 3Pt, 5-5 FT), four rebounds, three blocks, two assists and one steal in 34 minutes in his most recent appearance in the Swarm's win over the South Bay Lakers on Thursday, Smith will return to the parent club. He's unlikely to be featured in the rotation in Monday's game against the Rockets.

The Hornets assigned Smith to the G League's Greensboro Swarm on Saturday.

Smith has made just two appearances for the Swarm this season. Over those two appearances, he is averaging 30.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.0 blocks in 33.7 minutes.

The Hornets recalled Smith from the G League on Friday.

Smith has appeared in five NBA games this season, averaging 4.6 minutes per game. He'll rejoin the NBA roster ahead of the Hornets' matchup with the Bucks on Saturday, where he could see some minutes due to Tre Mann's (back) absence.

Charlotte assigned Smith to the G League's Greensboro Swarm on Monday.

This will be Smith's first G League assignment of the season. He's hardly seen the floor for Charlotte, averaging 4.6 minutes across five appearances.

Smith (illness) is available for Friday's game versus the Pacers.

Smith was a late addition to the injury report with an illness but will play through it against Indiana. Smith is averaging 3.5 points in 9.0 minutes across his two appearances this season.

Smith is listed as questionable for Friday's game versus the Pacers due to an illness.

Despite not appearing on the injury report all day, Smith is now in danger of missing Friday's contest due to a non-COVID illness. However, the 20-year-old forward's potential absence shouldn't significantly impact Charlotte's rotation.

The Hornets exercised their third-year team option for Smith on Wednesday.

This wasn't in any doubt. Although Smith isn't in Charlotte's rotation right now, he remains an intriguing developmental piece for the future.

Smith (groin) recorded 14 points (4-16 FG, 1-8 3Pt, 5-5 FT), three rebounds, three assists, three steals and one block across 25 minutes in Thursday's 121-116 loss to Indiana.

Smith missed time during the preseason due to a groin injury but got the green light to suit up Thursday. He managed to contribute across the board in the preseason finale despite struggling to find his shooting stroke. The Arkansas product's role in Charlotte's rotation is undefined heading into the 2024-25 campaign given a crowded backcourt that includes Tre Mann, Seth Curry, Vasilije Micic and KJ Simpson.

Smith (groin) didn't play in Tuesday's 111-105 preseason loss to the Knicks.

The Hornets said Smith would be re-evaluated for his left groin injury in one week from Oct. 6, but the team has yet to release any updates. Smith's status for the regular season is now in question as his next chance to suit up is Thursday's preseason finale against the Pacers.

Smith sustained a left groin injury during training camp and will miss Sunday's preseason opener against the Knicks -- he will be reevaluated in one week.

Smith sustained the injury near the end of training camp, and it is unclear whether he will be back for Opening Night of the regular season. The 20-year-old is coming off an inconsistent rookie season, during which he averaged 5.9 points, 1.4 rebounds and 1.2 assists across 14.3 minutes per game in 51 regular-season outings.

Smith recorded 24 points (9-20 FG, 6-11 3Pt), six rebounds, three assists and one steal across 33 minutes during Sunday's 120-110 win over the Cavaliers.

Smith was the leading scorer in the Hornets' regular-season finale Sunday. His 24 points and six made threes were both career highs as he saw extended playing time with Charlotte sitting multiple rotational players. Over the last two games of the season, Smith averaged 19.5 points, 4.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists over 31.0 minutes game contest.

Smith finished with 15 points (5-12 FG, 3-6 3Pt, 2-2 FT), three rebounds and two assists in 29 minutes during Friday's 131-98 loss to the Celtics.

Smith's 15 points Friday was the first time he's reached double-digit scoring since Feb. 9 against the Bucks. He's spent time in the G League with the Greensboro Swarm, but with the Hornets down several players due to injury, Smith could see another heavy workload in Sunday's regular-season finale against the Cavaliers.

Smith finished with four points (2-9 FG, 0-2 3Pt), three rebounds and one assist across 18 minutes in Wednesday's 89-86 loss to the Trail Blazers.

Since being recalled from the G League on March 4, Smith has averaged just 2.3 points in 8.1 minutes, shooting 28.9 percent from the field. Prior to the All-Star break, the 19-year-old's numbers were considerably better, as he averaged 6.6 points in 15.8 minutes and shot 40.6 percent from the field. Despite his poor shooting lately, expect the rookie to receive playing time as the season winds down with LaMelo Ball (ankle), Seth Curry (ankle) and Cody Martin (ankle) out for the rest of the season.

The Hornets recalled Smith from the G League's Greensboro Swarm on Monday.

Smith hasn't appeared in an NBA game since before the All-Star break. However, with Seth Curry (ankle) and Cody Martin (ankle) joining LaMelo Ball (ankle) on the sidelines recently, there may be depth minutes available for the rookie guard.

The Hornets recalled Smith from the G League's Greesboro Swarm on Thursday.

Smith will be available for Thursday's game versus the Bucks. The rookie guard is averaging 6.5 points, 1.5 assists and 1.0 rebounds in 16.4 minutes across his last 10 appearances for Charlotte.

The Hornets recalled Smith from the G League's Greensboro Swarm on Wednesday.

The arrival of several new players last week in the aftermath of the trade deadline resulted in Smith getting pushed out of the rotation and assigned to Greensboro, where he'll likely get the chance to play extended minutes. Though he's back with Charlotte for Wednesday's game versus Atlanta, Smith is uncertain to re-emerge in head coach Steve Clifford's rotation.

The Hornets assigned Smith to the G League's Greensboro Swarm on Monday.

In the wake of Thursday's trade deadline, the Hornets essentially overhauled their second unit. After appearing in each of the previous 28 games and averaging 18.3 minutes, Smith didn't leave the bench in Saturday's 115-106 win over the Grizzlies, and Nathan Mensah, Leaky Black and Bryce McGowens were also spectators after having previously been included in the rotation. Meanwhile, new arrivals Vasilije Micic, Seth Curry, Grant Williams and Davis Bertans all had roles off the bench in the win. Smith's demotion to the G League likely signals that the Hornets will stick with the new veteran group as their core players on the second unit for Monday's game against the Pacers.

Smith racked up 12 points (4-10 FG, 3-4 3Pt, 1-1 FT) and one steal over 21 minutes during Friday's 126-106 loss to Oklahoma City.

Smith's skinny frame and lack of true point guard instincts are on the learning curve as a rookie, but his three-point shooting has been off-the-charts. He connected on just 33.8 percent of 4.2 threes per game during his one-and-done campaign at Arkansas last year, so his 47.9 percent clip through 94 attempts thus far is a revelation.

Smith logged eight points (3-4 FG, 2-3 3Pt), two rebounds and two assists across 15 minutes during Monday's 128-125 victory over Minnesota.

Smith was conducive to good ball movement and offensive activity for the Hornets last night, although he provided his scoring value from being a reliable spot-up man in the corner. The rookie profiles as a two-way sparkplug at the moment, and connecting on 45.5 percent of 77 three-point attempts thus far is forming an exciting foundation.

Smith finished Monday's 119-112 overtime loss to Chicago with 15 points (6-15 FG, 3-6 3Pt), four rebounds, three assists and one steal across 32 minutes.

The 27th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft has forced his way into a significant role in the backcourt rotation over the last few weeks with an impressive performance from beyond the arc. Over the last eight games, Smith has drained multiple three-pointers six times and shot 58.1 percent from long distance while averaging 9.5 points, 2.3 threes, 2.1 boards and 1,8 assists in only 18.6 minutes a night from the second unit. LaMelo Ball (ankle) is closing in on his return, which will shake things up, but Smith's current run will make it tough for coach Steve Clifford to return the rookie to the end of the bench.

Smith closed with six points (2-3 FG, 2-3 3Pt), one assist and two blocks across 14 minutes during Tuesday's 111-104 victory over Sacramento.

With Charlotte shorthanded, Smith has played double-digit minutes in nine straight games, averaging 8.1 points on 45.2 percent shooting during that stretch. He should continue to garner a modest bench role as long as LaMelo Ball (ankle), Brandon Miller (hip) and Gordon Hayward (calf) remain out, but Smith isn't producing enough to be on fantasy radars in standard leagues.

Smith is in the starting lineup for Tuesday game against the Clippers.

Smith will get the nod for the first start of his NBA career Tuesday. The rookie from Arkansas joins Terry Rozier, Bryce McGowens, Gordon Hayward and Miles Bridges in an ultra small-ball lineup for Charlotte.

The Hornets recalled Smith from the G League's Greensboro Swarm on Thursday.

Smith spent just a few days in the G League but will now rejoin the parent club. Over eight appearances with the Hornets this year, he's averaged 4.0 points in 7.1 minutes per game.

Smith (ankle) has been ruled out for Monday's game against Maimi.

As expected, Smith has been downgraded from doubtful and will miss a second straight game. The rookie hasn't been a consistent part of the rotation, so his absence shouldn't impact fantasy.

Smith (ankle) is doubtful for Monday's matchup against the Heat.

Smith is listed as doubtful for a second straight game. The rookie hasn't been a regular part of Charlotte's rotation, so his presumed absence shouldn't impact fantasy.

Smith (ankle) has been ruled out for Friday's game against the Raptors.

As expected, Smith has been downgraded from doubtful to out. It's unclear when exactly he sprained his ankle, but he scored 14 points in Greensboro's blowout loss to Capital City on Thursday. Smith hasn't been a regular part of Charlotte's rotation, so his absence shouldn't have a fantasy impact.

The Hornets list Smith as doubtful for Friday's game against the Raptors with a right ankle sprain.

Smith was called up from the G League's Greensboro Swarm earlier in the day, but he doesn't look like he'll be on track to play Friday against the Raptors while he manages the ankle injury. Even when healthy, Smith hasn't been a regular member of the Charlotte rotation during his rookie season. He's appeared in eight of the Hornets' first 19 games, averaging 4.0 points and 0.6 rebounds in 7.1 minutes per contest.

Charlotte recalled Smtih from the G League's Greensboro Swarm on Friday.

Smith's second G League assignment of the season lasted just one day. The rookie recorded 14 points (5-6 FG, 4-5 3Pt), three assists and one rebound during Greensboro's blowout loss to Capital City on Thursday.

The Hornets assigned Smith to the Greensboro Swarm of the G League on Thursday.

Smith's assignment to the Swarm marks his second of the season. The rookie guard has been an inconsistent part of Charlotte's rotation and should receive extended playing time in the G League.

Smith was called up to Charlotte's main roster Tuesday evening.

Smith made his G League debut with the Greensboro Swarm earlier in the day Tuesday, delivering 21 points, three rebounds and three assists in a win over Capital City. His matinee cameo ends with a return to the Hornets, where he's averaged 4.0 points in 7.1 minutes per game across eight appearances this season

The Hornets assigned Nick Smith to the Greensboro Swarm of the G League on Monday.

This is the first G League assignment of the season for Smith. The rookie hasn't been utilized much in Charlotte, appearing in eight games with an average of 7.1 minutes per contest.

Smith recorded a career-high nine points (3-4 FG, 3-3 3Pt) along with one rebound and one block across 14 minutes in Thursday's 129-128 victory over the Nets.

It appears Smith will get more opportunities off the bench after an MRI confirmed LaMelo Ball sustained a right ankle sprain, sidelining him for at least a week. In Smith's last six games, he has averaged 8.7 minutes per game, so expect that to trend upwards in the immediate future.

Smith supplied eight points (3-4 FG, 2-2 3Pt) in five minutes during Tuesday's 115-91 loss to the Knicks.

Smith played in just his seventh game of the season Tuesday, scoring a career-high eight points in five minutes. The Hornets recently lost LaMelo Ball to what is being described as a serious ankle sprain. While Smith is still buried on the depth chart, there is a chance the Hornets may opt to see what they have in Smith, especially if their current trajectory holds. He is clearly not someone who needs to be prioritized, but the situation warrants at least some attention.

Smith produced 11 points (4-10 FG, 0-2 3PT, 3-4 FT), five rebounds and two turnovers in 20 minutes of Tuesday's 113-109 preseason loss to Miami.

Smith certainly had his moments and he showed plenty of promise during the Summer League. The rookie guard is expected to spend some time in the G League this season with the Hornets loaded at guard, so he's unlikely to have a fantasy impact in most leagues early on.

Smith is expected to get some playing time in the G League this season, Sam Perley of NBA.com reports.

Smith was a lot of fun to watch at the Summer League, but the Hornets have a lot of depth at guard, and it will be hard for the rookie to carve out some playing time early on.

Smith is unavailable for Saturday's Summer League game against the Timberwolves, Sam Perley of the Hornets' official site reports.

Smith had been one of Charlotte's Summer League standouts. The rookie forward will likely compete for a depth role at the forward position in 2023-24.

Smith recorded 33 points (13-20 FG, 4-5 3Pt, 3-4 FT), four rebounds, three assists, one steal and one block in 28 minutes during Tuesday's 97-93 Summer League loss to Portland.

Smith led the Hornets in scoring with impressive efficiency despite the loss Tuesday. While his six turnovers were an issue, Smith showed off his potential to get past his defender off the bounce and convert on his outside shots.

Smith tallied 14 points (6-13 FG,1-4 3Pt, 1-1 FT) five rebounds and four assists in 29 minutes during Wednesday's 98-83 Summer League loss to the Warriors.

After going 5-14 from the field in his Summer League debut against San Antonio, Smith bounced back with some solid efficiency Wednesday. His three-point shot remains a concern, but he has flashed an ability to get to the rim.